Oceans Of Kansas
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
The New Jersey artist Lily Vakili brings her inimitable storytelling to these 10 folk influenced songs.
“Okoboji” opens with Vakili’s soaring pipes amid Joseph Yount’s animated drumming for the lively delivery, and “Hold On They Say” follows with Chris St. Hilaire’s fluid keys that complement the expressive singing.
Landing in the middle, “Photograph” finds a dreamy place to reside via Dave Mann’s playful sax, while “One Human Being” welcomes Mann’s flute to the rhythmic and cultured album highlight.
Close to the end, “Rocket” benefits from Seth Barden’s strategic bass and warm guitar playing, as Vakili’s sings with much soul, and the radio edit of “I’ve Been Hiding” exits with Reed Turchi’s guitar prowess via the layered finish.
Vakili balances intimacy, balladry, fuller bouts and plenty of rawness, as her distinct and timeless song craft continues to impress us.
Travels well with: Adam Tilzer- Cult Leader; Annie J- Been Loving You